Throw A Karaoke Party

Unleash the inner superstar in each person by hosting a karaoke party. The best thing about karaoke is that you can do it anywhere – at home, in a park, at school, or in a party room. It is a fun activity that anyone can enjoy, regardless of physical ability or age.

Karaoke parties are easy to plan, and you do not need expensive equipment. Gone are the days when expensive and heavy karaoke machines were necessary for fun. Software like “Singa” turns your laptop into a leading singing experience. Stream the lyrics to a TV, and everyone can join in the fun. Plan the playlist in advance. Focusing on familiar songs can make it easier for everyone to find a song they know. You can also ask that RSVPs include two or three favorite song suggestions.

While some karaoke apps are free, others have minimal charges. For example, Singa only gives you three free songs a day, but you can upgrade to their premium version for around $10 a month. Karaoke by Yokee is another great option. Check out our resources at the end of this blog for these and other great apps. They are simple to download and provide all the instructions for use.

You will also need at least two microphones. Wired mics eliminate the need for batteries but can constrict when singers want to move around and dance. Wireless mics may cost more, but they encourage movement. Just avoid inexpensive microphones that can pick up other sounds and distort voices. You can also find some fun voice-changing karaoke microphones on Amazon that amplify the voice and turn it into something different.

Preplanning is crucial because you want to check your setup and ensure you know how to use your karaoke program. Smart TVs make it easy to pull the app up on your TV screen. If you do not have a Smart TV, you can use your laptop or tablet and mirror it to the TV. Apple TV is an excellent tool for this. That way, you can manage the playlist while people sing with the lyrics on the TV. There are also projectors you can get to display the lyrics on a wall or screen.

Themes, props, food, and prizes!

Themed parties take karaoke up a notch, and companies such as aZul offer unique clothing lines created by people with special needs. Inspiration for themes is everywhere, including holidays, decades, movies, and music styles. The sky’s the limit when you let creativity take over.

Props are a great way to help loosen inhibitions. Inflatable guitars, microphones, and other instruments are fun for everyone. Inflatable microphones let everyone “join” in the fun while people are up singing and performing. Maracas and tambourines add a musical touch. Hats, boas, wigs, sparkly glasses, and costume pieces can add to the fun. Room decorations can include balloons, garlands, disco balls, and a fun backdrop for the “stage.”

Food and beverages are crucial, and finger foods are excellent serving options. Pizza is often a party staple; remember to check for food allergies among guests ahead of time and be prepared with equivalent options so no one feels left out. You can also provide foods that fit the theme, such as decorated cookies or cupcakes with instruments or other themed pictures.

Having prizes and challenges can help even the most inhibited guest come out of their shell. Contests for the best costume, loudest singer, and best dance moves are some of the ways to get everyone involved. Prizes can include certificates you make, little treats, candy, or toys.

Karaoke parties made easy!

Your duties during the party are simple – keep the snacks filled and encourage everyone to join in and have fun.

Karaoke party planning in 10 simple steps:

1. Choose your theme
2. Make and send out invitations
3. Ask people to RSVP with a few songs they know and like
4. Determine your setup (karaoke machine, laptop, TV, microphone, projector) and practice ahead of time
5. Download your karaoke app and learn how to use it
6. Make your playlist
7. Get props and prizes
8. Decorate the space
9. Prepare or purchase and set up the snacks
10. Have fun

With just a little planning and setup, you can host a fun karaoke party.

Resources:

https://www.azulfashionartdesign.org/

https://www.karafun.com/blog/604-organize-the-perfect-karaoke-party-for-kids.html

https://www.axiomaudio.com/blog/host-karaoke-party

https://www.ezcast.com/blog/12662/8-pro-tips-to-host-an-awesome-karaoke-party

https://www.makeuseof.com/best-free-karaoke-apps/

https://singa.com/blog/best-karaoke-apps/

Related: 4 Tips for Managing Parties and Social Gatherings this Summer

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This post originally appeared on our November/December 2023 Magazine